Future of historic John Foord Bridge

30 July 2014

New Technology to ensure future of historic John Foord Bridge

Roads and Maritime Services will use new technology to help keep the 122 year old John Foord Bridge in service.

Member for Albury, Greg Aplin said the NSW and Victorian governments have provided $400,000 for work which will start this month on the iron lattice truss bridge over the Murray River at Corowa and Wahgunyah.

“The timber footpath across the bridge will be replaced with fibre reinforced plastic panels which provide better slip resistance for pedestrians and cyclists and will require less regular maintenance,” Mr Aplin said.

“This will be the first time this technology has been used by Roads and Maritime on an historic bridge in NSW and will ensure the bridge continues to serve the community well into the future.

“Permanent rails will also be installed under the bridge to connect an access platform and allow work crews to carry out future maintenance of the bridge more safely.”

Work to improve the bridge will be carried out on weekdays between 7am and 5pm and is expected to be completed by October, weather permitting.

There may be occasional delays of up to 20 minutes during installation of the rails. River traffic may be diverted around closed river channels when overhead work is in progress.

Access will remain for pedestrians and cyclists with some interruptions while machinery is moved.

Electronic signs will be used to advise motorists of upcoming closures and more information will be provided as work progresses and the schedule is finalised. Motorists are advised to allow extra travel time and to follow all signs.

Information will be provided to the community ahead of four weeks of full day closures between 7am and 5pm which are expected to occur after the school holidays in October. During the closures, road traffic will be detoured via Federation Bridge, about 10 minutes away.

For the latest traffic information, visit www.livetraffic.com, download Live Traffic App or call the Transport Management Centre on 132 701.